Restaurants across the U.S. are tapping into diners’ nostalgia by offering “throwback pricing”—limited-time meals and snacks priced as they were years ago. Fast-casual chains like White Castle and friendly dining favorites like Friendly’s have reintroduced retro deals including sliders for roughly $4 and 90‑cent ice‑cream scoops, tying them to anniversaries or throwback menu lines.
Others such as California Tortilla and Planet Hollywood have also rolled out similar promotions—think $5 burrito bowls priced like they did on opening day or classic Times Square entrées from the early ’90s. Even independent spots are jumping on board: some are offering “Eat Like It’s 2019” specials with around 25% off.
By pairing lower prices with a nostalgic twist, restaurants aim to draw back budget-conscious customers in a cost-conscious climate, boosting foot traffic and reigniting loyalty. But while these deals drive short-term buzz, industry observers warn they may not convert into repeat visits unless everyday value remains consistent.